November 28, 2011

Wappinger Shrine

Native American Scholar and shaman, Evan Pritchard, dedicates CoSM's cairn in honor of the indigenous people who walked our land 400 years ago. "Honoring the Wappingers" was a special event that featured an opening song by Roland Musafa and offerings of prayer and tobacco. The day was spent learning about Wappinger culture. The shrine's shape, suggested by Evan, was modeled after stone mounds found in the Hudson Valley, some thought to be over 4,000 years old. All stones were found or dug up from CoSM's property, with stone carved letters by local sculptor, Nils Kulleseid. Visitors to CoSM are greeted by the Wappinger shrine as they first enter our holy grounds. Thanks to all who helped us celebrate the ancestors!